A SOLDIER who was attacked outside a city centre nightclub has died, police said today.

Staff Sergeant Chris Chacksfield, who 14th Signal Regiment (Electronic Warfare), was with his wife when he was attacked.

The assault happened outside the Babylon 90 bar, on Newgate Street, at around 12.50am on May 31.

The 31-year-old soldier, who was from Haverfordwest, Wales, was taken to Newcastle General Hospital but died from head injuries.

His wife, aged 32, was also treated in hospital but released after receiving treatment.

Police said the soldier's death was now being treated as a homicide investigation and a post-mortem examination will be carried out later.

Superintendent Gillian Mitchell, of Newcastle Area Command, said: "Our sympathies are with the victims family at what must be a terrible time for them.

A team of detectives is working on this case and a man has been charged.

"The neighbourhood policing team is working to reassure people in the city centre that everything is being done to thoroughly investigate this incident.

"If anyone does have any concerns they should get in touch with their local officers to discuss them."

A 22-year-old man has been remanded in custody after appearing before the citys magistrates court charged with one charge of grievous bodily harm with intent and one offence of wounding, in connection with the incident.

A 23-year-old man, who was arrested in connection with the incident, has been released with no further police action.